46 U.S. Code § 7309 - Able seamen—special

The required service for the endorsement of able seaman—special, qualified for special service on a vessel on any waters, is at least 12 months’ service on deck on board vessels operating on the oceans or the navigable waters of the United States (including the Great Lakes).

Section
7309 establishes the minimum service requirements for an individual to qualify as able seamen—special.

Acceptance of Certain Services Toward Endorsement as Able Seaman

Service used to qualify for endorsement as able seaman—fishing industry to be accepted as qualifying service toward an endorsement under this section, see section 602(e)(3) ofPub. L. 101–595, set out as a note under section
7306 of this title.